THIS JOURNAL BELONGS TO:

DISCOVER THE JOYS

NAME: OF HAVING A BABY
BABY’S NAME:
AT MEDICLINIC
BABY’S DUE DATE:
Congratulations on your pregnancy. This journal is provided as part of Mediclinic Baby, a
unique support programme for parents whose babies are born at a Mediclinic hospital.
DUE DATE CALCULATOR
TAKE THE FIRST DAY OF YOUR LAST MENSTRUAL CYCLE (LMC), ADD Use your journal to record your fondest memories, learn about the changes you and your
NINE CALENDAR MONTHS PLUS SEVEN DAYS. baby will experience together over the next nine months and prepare yourself physically
and emotionally for motherhood.
LMC + NINE MONTHS + SEVEN DAYS

THE DAY I FOUND OUT I WAS PREGNANT MY PREGNANCY “FIRSTS”

DATE, PLACE AND TIME: SAW BABY ON ULTRASOUND AND HEARD HEARTBEAT.

DATE:

MY REACTION: FELT BABY MOVE.

DATE:

HUSBAND’S REACTION: WENT TO A PRENATAL EDUCATION SESSION.

DATE:

WHO WE TOLD FIRST: STARTED DECORATING BABY’S ROOM.

HOW WE CELEBRATED: DATE:

FROM POPPY SEED GET WITH
TO WATERMELON THE PROGRAMME
Follow your baby’s development over the next 40 weeks with the help of our fun fruit comparison chart, You can register for the Mediclinic Baby
conveniently divided into the trimesters of pregnancy and supported by checklists, health tips and programme as soon as your pregnancy is
interesting facts. Don’t forget to use the notes pages provided to record your experiences, thoughts and confirmed (12 weeks). For details on how to
feelings during this very special time. register, visit www.mediclinicbaby.ae

DEDICATED ONLINE SUPPORT

WITH ALL THE INFORMATION YOU’LL NEED

Weekly email updates on your baby’s

development, a wealth of online information,
WEEKS 3-4 WEEK 5 WEEK 6 WEEK 7 WEEK 8
special events and campaign notifications
and valuable free offers and services.

WEEK 9 WEEK 10 WEEK 11 WEEK 12 WEEK 13

WEEK 14 WEEK 15 WEEKS 16-17 WEEK 18 WEEK 19

WEEKS 20-24 WEEKS 25-28 WEEKS 29-32 WEEKS 33-36 WEEK 38

MY FIRST TRIMESTER
CHANGES IN BABY: WEEKS 1 TO 12

WEEKS 3-4 WEEK 5 WEEK 8 WEEK 9

BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF AN BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A
POPPY SEED AND IS SETTLING INTO THE UTERUS, APPLE SEED AND IS STARTING TO FORM MAJOR ORGANS. RASPBERRY AND IS GROWING A MILLIMETRE DAILY. STRAWBERRY AND TOES ARE DEVELOPING.

WEEK 6 WEEK 7 WEEK 10 WEEK 12

BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A
PEA AND HAS AN AUDIBLE HEARTBEAT. BLUEBERRY AND NOSTRILS ARE VISIBLE. PRUNE AND TISSUES AND ORGANS ARE GROWING RAPIDLY. PLUM AND HAS A HUMAN FACIAL PROFILE.
MY FIRST TRIMESTER
CHECKLIST
BOOK A PRENATAL APPOINTMENT
WITH THE GYNAECOLOGIST
• Most doctors recommend you schedule your first
appointment for when you are approximately 8-12 weeks
pregnant. You will be given an ultrasound to investigate your
pregnancy and confirm your due date
• It’s natural to feel a little anxious about having your first
ultrasound. Talk to your doctor, nursing practitioner or
sonographer beforehand and take someone with you for extra
support
CONSIDER HAVING A PHYSICAL CHECK-UP
• Speak to your doctor about any prescription drugs you are
currently taking as they may affect your pregnancy and the
development of your baby
• Get advice on supplements. Omega 3+6 oils and folic acid is
particularly important
SEE THE DENTIST
Your pregnancy may influence your dental health and your PHYSICAL
dental health can affect the health of your baby. More than
half of pregnant women develop pregnancy gingivitis, which
causes swollen, red and bleeding gums. Gum infections can
SYMPTOMS
result in a premature or underweight baby. Make sure you tell You may experience nausea, breast tenderness, increased
your dentist you are expecting. urination and fatigue at this time but this is normal and will
soon pass. Foods that can help alleviate morning sickness
REDUCE RISKS THAT CAN HARM YOUR BABY include crackers, Marie biscuits, ginger tea and green apples.
Smoking
Smoking considerably increases risk of miscarriage, premature
birth and stillbirth. Both active and passive smoking should be
avoided during pregnancy at all costs as each cigarette
increases the negative effects on the unborn child.
Toxoplasmosis
Toxoplasmosis is usually contracted through eating raw or
insufficiently cooked meat. The causative pathogen can also
be found in cat faeces.
• Only eat meat which has been sufficiently cooked
• Clean raw fruit, vegetables and lettuce thoroughly
• Avoid contact with cat faeces
Listeriosis
If contracted during pregnancy, listeriosis can lead to a
miscarriage or have serious effects on the unborn child.
Listeriosis bacteria are found in unpasteurised milk products,
soft serve ice cream and raw meat or fish. Although very rare
in pregnant women, it is best to avoid the risk of listeriosis
infection by consuming only pasteurised milk products, avoiding
soft serve ice cream products, raw meat or fish and carefully
rinsing salads, especially those containing wheat germ and
sprouts, which can also contain the bacteria.
 SUPPLEMENTS WITH FOLATE (VITAMIN B9),
AN ESSENTIAL NUTRIENT FOUND IN PEAS, HAS
BEEN SHOWN TO SIGNIFICANTLY LOWER THE RISK
OF SEVERAL BIRTH DEFECTS, INCLUDING NEURAL
TUBE DEFECTS (NTD).

MY FIRST TRIMESTER WHAT BABY

NOTES AND OBSERVATIONS: WEEKS ONE TO TWELVE LOOKS LIKE

DATE OF SCAN:
MY SECOND TRIMESTER
CHANGES IN BABY: WEEKS 13 TO 28

WEEK 13 WEEK 14 WEEK 18 WEEK 19

BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A LEMON AND WEIGHS 45 BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A SWEET POTATO AND BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A MANGO AND IN GIRLS,
PEACH. TEETH AND TINY RIBS ARE FORMING. GRAMS. SEX WILL BECOME APPARENT SOON. WEIGHS ABOUT 200 GRAMS. YOU MAY BECOME AWARE THE UTERUS AND VAGINA ARE FORMING.
OF QUICKENING MOVEMENTS.

WEEK 15 WEEKS 16-17 WEEKS 20–24 WEEKS 25–28

BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF AN BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF AN AVOCADO, ABLE TO FORM BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A PAPAYA. YOU MAY FEEL BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF AN AUBERGINE AND IF
ORANGE AND SCALP HAIR PATTERN IS FORMING. FACIAL EXPRESSIONS, PLAY WITH UMBILICAL CORD AND HICCUPS AS SMALL RHYTHMIC TWITCHES AND MAY ALSO BORN AT THIS STAGE MIGHT SURVIVE. THE EYES BLINK,
CAN HEAR THE SOUND OF YOUR HEART AND VOICE. EXPERIENCE BRAXTON HICKS CONTRACTIONS. HAVE EYELASHES AND CAN SEE LIGHT.
MY SECOND TRIMESTER
CHECKLIST
START STOCKING UP
Start buying nappies, especially if you see them at discount TIPS AND ADVICE
prices. Remember not to buy too many newborn nappies, Congratulations, by week 20 you will have reached the
as your baby will outgrow them quickly. halfway mark of your pregnancy!

HAVE TESTS AS RECOMMENDED: Diet an exercise routine

Blood tests: A complete blood count is taken to check for • Eating brain foods such
anaemia. as bananas, apples and
oats will help boost your
Antibody test: Blood group, german measles immunity, memory
Down’s syndrome screening, etc. • Remember to drink plenty
of fluids during the day
Amniocentesis: If required, amniotic fluid is tested between 15
and 20 weeks. Relationships
• Discuss how your baby
Iron levels: It is important to have your iron levels tested. will change your routines
and affect your relationship.
Plan how best to
• Avoid contact sports or
activities that may cause
you to lose your balance
• Rest frequently and stop
if you feel any pain
Relaxation
• Mediclinic antenatal
classes will advise you
on what to expect during
the birth and about any
medical procedures that

PHYSICAL support each other

• Buy a book or visit websites
may be required
• Studies show that playing

SYMPTOMS that list baby names

to find one you both like
relaxing music for your
developing baby during
pregnancy contributes
Exercise positively to bonding and
• Your weight gain should be approximately 1.4 – 1.8 kg for • To stay supple and ward reduces stress (do not
every month of pregnancy off aches and pains, do place headphones directly
• Your skin may be more sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen to some daily stretching exercises, against your body)
ASK YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT A NUCHAL SCAN CONSIDER A BASIC CPR COURSE prevent permanent hyperpigmentation or find a qualified
This is usually done at 11-13 weeks to identify the higher risks Make sure you and family members who will be caring for your • Prevent stretch marks with daily use of a moisturiser or trainer in an activity Sleep
for genetic defects e.g. Down’s syndrome. baby are familiar with basic CPR for babies. stretch mark cream to keep your skin supple geared for pregnant Make sure you get plenty
• Alleviate cramps by upping your fluid intake, taking a women (yoga, pilates of rest and sleep, including
SIGN UP FOR ANTENATAL CLASSES ASK ABOUT PERTUSSIS (WHOOPING COUGH) VACCINATION magnesium supplement or having a massage or aqua aerobics) naps. If lying flat causes
Regular six-week antenatal courses are recommended from Mothers can be vaccinated before pregnancy or after giving • Fingers may swell. Remove rings to prevent them becoming • Always check with your you to feel dizzy, try lying
around 26 weeks (antenatal weekend courses from 20 weeks). birth. Make sure that all caregivers who will be in contact with too tight doctor before starting on your left side.
It’s important to have your partner attend the antenatal classes your newborn have been vaccinated.
with you so that he understands what is happening during
labour and is able to assist you during the birth.
 AVOCADOS ARE RICH IN FOLIC ACID, VITAL FOR
FORMING YOUR BABY’S BRAIN AND NERVOUS SYSTEM.

MY SECOND TRIMESTER WHAT BABY

NOTES AND OBSERVATIONS: WEEKS 13 TO 28 LOOKS LIKE

DATE OF SCAN:
MY THIRD TRIMESTER
CHANGES IN BABY: WEEKS 29 TO 40

WEEK 29 WEEK 30 WEEK 35 WEEK 36

BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF AN ACORN SQUASH WITH BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A CUCUMBER AND STRONG BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A COCONUT AND HEARING BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A HONEYDEW MELON AND
BONES FULLY FORMED BUT STILL SOFT AND PLIABLE. ENOUGH TO GRASP A FINGER. IS FULLY DEVELOPED. GAINING 227 GRAMS A WEEK. MOVEMENT IS MORE
RESTRICTED BUT IMPORTANT TO TAKE NOTE OF.

WEEKS 31–32 WEEKS 33–34 WEEKS 37–38 WEEKS 39–40

BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A PINEAPPLE, MOVES BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A BUTTERNUT SQUASH. THE BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A PUMPKIN, FULLY FORMED BABY IS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A SMALL WATERMELON.
MOREAND IS LULLED TO SLEEP BY YOUR MOVEMENTS. BONES IN THE SKULL ARE NOT FUSED YET AS THEY NEED AND IN THE CORRECT, HEAD DOWN, POSITION READY ALTHOUGH NOW READY FOR BIRTH, SOME PREGNANCIES
TO OVERLAP DURING VAGINAL BIRTH. FOR BIRTH. CONTINUE UNTIL 42 WEEKS.
MY THIRD TRIMESTER
CHECKLIST
BOOK A 3D/4D SCAN
This is usually done between 27 and 32 weeks and will be able
to identify the baby’s sex. Sometimes the baby’s position can
affect imaging, for example, if the legs are crossed, or where
the umbilical cord obscures the genital area.
TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR
By week 39 your baby is ready to be born and should be
engaged in the pelvis in the head down position. Some babies
do not engage and some pregnancies continue until 42 weeks.
In either case, your healthcare provider will discuss birthing
options with you.
PACK YOUR SUITCASE FOR HOSPITAL
Only five percent of babies are born on schedule. Make sure PHYSICAL
that you have a packed suitcase ready and that it’s in an easily
accessible place. SYMPTOMS
REGISTER YOUR BABY’S BIRTH
You must register your baby’s birth and apply for the Arabic • There is no reason you should find sex any less enjoyable
birth certificate. Speak to a member of staff about how we can and it’s safe till your water breaks or labour starts. Certain
help with this process. positions are more comfortable and pleasurable during
pregnancy. Ask your caregiver for advice and discuss any
START WEARING YOUR FEEDING BRA other concerns you may have
This will ensure comfort and support and limit stretch marks. • You may experience a strong urge to start preparing your
home for baby’s arrival. This is called the ‘nesting instinct’ and
TAKE SOME TIME OUT some experts believe it may even trigger labour
Consider organising some special activities with friends, family • Sleeping difficulties are common in the third trimester. Use
and your partner, as you will soon be spending most of your pillows to support your body and relieve pressure
time with your newborn.
TIPS AND ADVICE
• If you are experiencing the ‘nesting Signs of preterm labour Signs of labour
instinct’ don’t overdo things. Make Preterm labour is labour that begins • Release of the mucus plug or ‘show’
sure you take time to rest before 37 weeks. Signs can include: • Contractions which become
• If your partner is going to be present stronger
at the birth, make sure you are able • Four contractions per hour, which • An urge to go to the toilet more
to contact him at all times and that may be painful often
Make sure you have discussed your birth plan, chosen your
he has enquired about his company’s • Bleeding • Waters breaking, in a gush or stream
paediatrician and considered family planning options for after
policy on paternity leave • Increased pelvic pressure or pain in
the birth.
• During early labour, drink plenty the lower back area Don’t worry if your waters don’t break.
of liquids like water, apple juice or • Bloody mucus discharge or release The membrane will rupture naturally
BE AWARE OF BABY’S MOVEMENTS
herbal tea and try to eat something, of the cervical plug or ‘show’ during birth, or can be released by
Focus on feeling them at least twice a day. Babies are often
as you might not be able to eat at your doctor if required.
active after you eat or when you are resting. If you notice a
the hospital until after the birth
change in your baby’s routine and are concerned that
movements are becoming less frequent, don’t hesitate to call
the obstetrics unit.
 BUTTERNUT CONTAINS HIGH LEVELS
OF BETA-CAROTENE WHICH SUPPORTS
HEALTHY LUNG FUNCTION IN THE
DEVELOPING BABY.

MY THIRD TRIMESTER WHAT BABY

NOTES AND OBSERVATIONS: WEEKS 29 TO 40 LOOKS LIKE

DATE OF SCAN:
 BABY’S
ARRIVAL

DATE AND TIME OF BIRTH: HOSPITAL:

GYNAECOLOGIST: BABY’S WEIGHT:

PAEDIATRICIAN: BABY’S LENGTH:

NURSE: APGAR SCORE:

WHEN WE FIRST SAW OUR BABY:

TIPS AND ADVICE

FOR DADS
DURING THE PREGNANCY
• Attend antenatal visits so you can follow your baby’s
development and feel more connected to your wife and your
baby
• Hormonal changes during and after pregnancy can cause
mood swings in mothers-to-be. Listen to your partner and be
supportive during these times
• Try to give your partner a little bit of a break from time to
time
• Do small things for her e.g. massage her feet at the end of the
day, run her bath, help with household chores, etc.
• Suggest and plan opportunities to spend quality time
together and discuss feelings and fears
• Compile a ‘baby budget’. Think about getting financial advice
and updating your will
• Share in the excitement by helping to plan the nursery layout
CLOSE TO THE DUE DATE
• Make sure your suitcase is packed, as you might have to be at
the hospital for a while. Include a change of clothes, book or
magazine, some energy sweets, etc.
• Keep your hospital cases together so they’re easy to grab if
you need to leave in a hurry
• Remember your cell phone, camera and relevant chargers
• Know the shortest and the fastest route to the hospital and
make sure you always have a full tank of petrol
• Reassure your partner that you believe in her and that she will
be well cared for in hospital